Canned food is a familiar part of our daily lives as a household pantry staple. It was first manufactured in Japan about 150 years ago, in 1871 (Meiji 4). At that time, the vast majority of canned food sales were for export, meaning that many of the surviving labels today were originally designed for overseas markets.
This book features approximately 550 domestic and export canned food labels printed from 1877 (Meiji 10) through the Showa period. Showcasing a vast array of ingredients—ranging from fish, meat, and shellfish to fruits, vegetables, and everyday side dishes—these labels reflect Japan's abundant food resources at the time, as well as the high-caliber design skills cultivated amidst fierce international competition. The eccentricity and freshness of these exceptional designs undoubtedly project the vibrant spirit of the modern Japanese era. We invite you to enjoy the vintage commercial art of these canned food labels, which continue to overflow with a fresh, timeless charm even decades after their creation.
